Oh, the humble, yet surprisingly delightful, celery! While you might usually grab a pre-packaged bunch from the supermarket, imagine this: a sunny afternoon in the Dutch countryside, the air fresh, and a vast green field stretching before you, just waiting for you to get your hands a little dirty. Yes, on several charming farms across the Netherlands, you can embark on a delightful ‘zelfpluk’ (pick-your-own) adventure for this crisp, green wonder!

The Joy of the Celery Pick!

There’s something truly wholesome and utterly satisfying about hand-picking your own produce, and celery is no exception. Strolling through rows of vibrant green stalks, feeling the sun on your back and the soft earth beneath your feet, is a mini-escape from the everyday.

  • Solo Serenity: If you’re looking for a peaceful moment, just you and nature, the rhythm of selecting and snapping those stalks can be wonderfully meditative. The crisp thwack as you pull a stalk from its earthy bed is pure ASMR!
  • Family Fun: Bring the kids, your best mates, or even grandma! It’s a fantastic way to spend quality time together. Little ones love the treasure hunt aspect, discovering the plumpest stalks, while friends can turn it into a friendly competition: “Who can find the crunchiest celery?” Plus, it’s a brilliant way to show children where their food actually comes from – not just the grocery shelf!
  • Sensory Delight: Inhale that fresh, slightly peppery, earthy aroma. Feel the firm, cool stalks in your hands. There’s an authentic connection to your food that simply can’t be replicated by a plastic-wrapped bundle. You’re not just picking celery; you’re harvesting a memory, a story, and a taste of the land.

Fill your basket (or even better, a reusable tote!) with enough celery to last you a good while, knowing that each stalk was chosen by you, fresh from the earth.

Bringing Your Bounty Home: Culinary Adventures Await!

Once you’re back home, perhaps with a rosy glow from the fresh air and a satisfied smirk, it’s time to unleash the versatility of your farm-fresh celery. Wash it well, trim the ends, and marvel at its vibrant green beauty.

Here are some fantastic ways to put your hand-picked celery to good use:

  • Snack Attack: The simplest pleasure! Slice it into sticks and pair with peanut butter, hummus, or cream cheese for a wholesome, satisfying crunch.
  • Salad Superstar: Add a delightful crispness to any salad. Chop it finely for coleslaw, or slice into rounds for a garden salad.
  • Soup Starter: Celery is a foundational flavour in many soups, stews, and stocks. Its subtle earthiness creates a wonderful depth.
  • Stir-fry Sensation: Add a fantastic texture and fresh bite to your favourite Asian-inspired dishes.

Cooking Up a Storm: Celery Recipes!

As a vegetable, your freshly picked celery is ripe for some delicious cooking.

1. Creamy Celery & Potato Soup

This comforting soup is surprisingly flavourful and makes good use of a large bunch of celery.

Ingredients:

  • 4-5 large celery stalks, chopped (leaves included!)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 litre (4 cups) vegetable broth
  • 120ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream (or plant-based cream for a dairy-free option)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and chopped celery, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the celery just begins to soften.
  3. Stir in the diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender.
  4. Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a regular blender (be cautious with hot liquids!).
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and heat gently (do not boil after adding cream). Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

2. Classic Waldorf Salad with a Twist

A timeless classic that truly celebrates celery’s crunch!

Ingredients:

  • 4 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 2 red apples (e.g., Honeycrisp or Gala), cored and diced (skin on for colour and nutrients)
  • 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a little kick)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Lettuce leaves for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, diced apples, halved grapes, and toasted walnuts.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the celery mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For best results, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to meld.
  5. Serve scooped onto fresh lettuce leaves or as a vibrant side dish.

Cocktail Hour: The Mighty Celery Stick!

Celery isn’t just for eating; it’s a fantastic garnish and flavour enhancer in cocktails too!

The Ultimate Bloody Mary

A brunch favourite, made even better with your farm-fresh celery!

Ingredients:

  • 45ml (1.5 oz) vodka (optional, or omit for a virgin Bloody Mary)
  • 120ml (4 oz) tomato juice
  • 15ml (0.5 oz) fresh lemon juice
  • 2-3 dashes Worcestershire sauce
  • 2-3 dashes Tabasco sauce (or to taste)
  • Pinch of celery salt (optional, but recommended!)
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Ice
  • Garnish: 1 celery stalk (your freshly picked one!), lemon wedge, olives, cornichons, cherry tomatoes (get creative!)

Instructions:

  1. If using celery salt, rim your chosen glass: Moisten the rim with a lemon wedge, then dip it into a shallow plate of celery salt.
  2. Fill the glass with ice.
  3. In a separate mixing glass, combine the vodka (if using), tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, celery salt, and black pepper.
  4. Stir well to combine and chill the mixture.
  5. Pour the mixture into your prepared glass.
  6. Garnish generously with a beautiful, crisp celery stalk, a lemon wedge, and any other desired garnishes. Stir with the celery stick before sipping!

So, next time you’re planning an outing in the Netherlands, consider a farm visit for some celery picking. It’s an experience that’s good for the soul, great for a laugh, and ultimately, delicious for your palate! Enjoy the simple pleasures of the freshest celery you’ll ever taste!